Nehemiah 4:18

18 Each of the builders had his sword strapped around his waist while he was building, and the trumpeter was beside me.

Nehemiah 4:18 Meaning and Commentary

Nehemiah 4:18

For the builders had everyone his sword girded by his side,
and so builded
Thus accoutred he wrought, and was prepared for either service:

and he that sounded the trumpet was by me;
to give the alarm of war, that everyone might lay aside his work, and prepare for the battle: this officer stood by Nehemiah, that when he found it necessary, might give him orders to sound his trumpet, for the men to gather to him.

Nehemiah 4:18 In-Context

16 From that day on, half of my men did the work while the other half held spears, shields, bows, and armor. The officers supported all the people of Judah,
17 who were rebuilding the wall. The laborers who carried the loads worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other.
18 Each of the builders had his sword strapped around his waist while he was building, and the trumpeter was beside me.
19 Then I said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people: "The work is enormous and spread out, and we are separated far from one another along the wall.
20 Wherever you hear the trumpet sound, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us!"
Holman Christian Standard Bible ® Copyright © 2003, 2002, 2000, 1999 by Holman Bible Publishers.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.